How to Become a Physical Therapist (Heal with Hands-on Help!)
If you’ve ever envisioned helping people regain their mobility and improving their quality of life or pondered about what it takes to become a physical therapist, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to undertake to embark on your career as a physical therapist. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can pave your way.
- How to secure a job as a physical therapist.
So, whether you’re a novice aspiring to delve into this health-care profession or a seasoned professional aiming to upgrade your qualifications, stay with us.
We’re about to lay out the roadmap to becoming a physical therapist.
Let’s get the ball rolling!
Steps to Become a Physical Therapist
Step 1: Understand the Role and Responsibilities of a Physical Therapist
Before you start pursuing a career as a physical therapist, it’s important to fully understand what the role entails.
Physical therapists (PTs) are health care professionals who diagnose and treat individuals of all ages, from newborns to the very oldest, who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.
Physical therapists examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability.
They provide care in a variety of settings including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes.
Physical therapists also work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best care for their patients.
This often involves communicating with doctors, nurses, and other therapists to create and implement a comprehensive treatment plan.
Furthermore, physical therapists must also have strong interpersonal and communication skills as they will be working closely with patients and their families.
They should be compassionate, as they will often work with patients who are in pain and must have the patience to explain the treatment to the patients.
By understanding the role and responsibilities of a Physical Therapist, you can better determine if this career path aligns with your personal interests and long-term professional goals.
Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in a Relevant Field
To become a physical therapist, the first step after high school is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Most physical therapy programs do not require a specific undergraduate degree, but certain prerequisites are necessary.
A degree in biology, kinesiology, or exercise science is usually beneficial as it covers much of the necessary prerequisite coursework.
These prerequisite courses often include biology, physics, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and psychology.
Some physical therapy programs may also require statistics, biomechanics, or neuroscience courses.
While obtaining your bachelor’s degree, you may want to seek opportunities to volunteer or work in a physical therapy setting to gain practical experience.
This will not only give you a better understanding of the field, but it can also be beneficial when applying to doctorate programs in physical therapy.
Remember that grades matter.
Many physical therapy programs are competitive, and having a high GPA, particularly in the prerequisite courses, can increase your chances of acceptance into a doctorate program.
Step 3: Volunteer or Work in a Healthcare Setting
During your undergraduate years, aim to volunteer or work in a healthcare setting to gain firsthand experience of the industry.
This could be at a physical therapy clinic, hospital, or a rehabilitation center.
This experience can be incredibly beneficial in helping you understand the day-to-day operations and responsibilities of a physical therapist.
While volunteering or working, you’ll be exposed to different aspects of patient care, medical terminology, and the role that physical therapists play in the healthcare team.
You will learn how to interact with patients, observe physical therapists as they perform their duties, and understand the ethical and professional standards of this field.
This valuable experience can also be instrumental when applying for a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, as many programs require applicants to have some experience in a healthcare setting.
Additionally, this exposure can help you establish professional relationships and gain references that could be beneficial for your future career.
Step 4: Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
To become a licensed physical therapist, you must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
This program typically takes three years to complete and involves both coursework and clinical internships.
In your coursework, you will study topics such as biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, neuroscience, and pharmacology.
You will also learn various therapeutic procedures and tests, as well as medical ethics and evidence-based practice.
Additionally, you’ll get hands-on training in areas such as musculoskeletal, neurological, pediatric, and geriatric physical therapy.
The clinical internships will provide you with practical experience in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced physical therapists.
This will allow you to apply what you have learned in your coursework, develop your patient care skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the role of a physical therapist in healthcare.
Upon completion of your DPT program, you will be prepared to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is required to become a licensed physical therapist.
You may also choose to further specialize in a specific area of physical therapy by pursuing a residency or fellowship after graduation.
Step 5: Gain Clinical Experience Through Internships
Before you can work independently as a physical therapist, it’s important to gain clinical experience.
This experience often comes in the form of internships or residencies, which are usually integrated into your physical therapy degree program.
These opportunities allow you to work directly with patients under the supervision of an experienced physical therapist.
During your internship, you’ll get hands-on experience dealing with different conditions and patient populations.
You’ll apply the theoretical knowledge you’ve learned in school to practical situations and work with real patients.
This will help you improve your skills, confidence and ability to make critical decisions.
The internship or residency will also expose you to different areas of physical therapy.
This exposure can help you decide which areas you’d like to specialize in, such as orthopedics, sports, neurology, or pediatrics.
Be sure to use this opportunity to ask questions, learn as much as you can, and build professional relationships.
After completing your internship or residency, you may decide to pursue further specialized training or certifications to enhance your expertise and increase your job prospects.
Remember, the goal is to become as competent as possible, so you can provide the best care for your patients.
Step 6: Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
After completing your Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, the next step towards becoming a professional physical therapist is passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
This is a mandatory requirement in all 50 states and is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
The NPTE is a standardized test that assesses your basic knowledge and understanding of physical therapy.
It covers a wide range of topics, including the examination of patients, interventions, equipment, therapeutic modalities, and more.
The test is designed to ensure that physical therapists have the necessary skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively.
To prepare for the NPTE, you should review your coursework and use study guides and practice tests.
You can also attend review courses and workshops, or join study groups.
It’s also important to understand the format and structure of the test, and to familiarize yourself with the types of questions you’ll encounter.
Passing the NPTE is an important milestone in your career as a physical therapist.
It is a recognition of your competence and readiness to practice, and it opens the door to state licensure and professional opportunities.
Step 7: Obtain State Licensure
After completing your doctoral degree in physical therapy, the next important step in becoming a physical therapist is to obtain a state licensure.
In the United States, all states require physical therapists to be licensed.
The licensure process usually involves passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
This exam tests your basic knowledge and skills in physical therapy practice.
The NPTE is a challenging and comprehensive test, so thorough preparation is essential.
In addition to the NPTE, many states also require you to pass state-specific jurisprudence exams that test your knowledge of the laws and regulations governing the practice of physical therapy in your specific state.
Before applying for licensure, make sure to check the specific requirements of your state’s physical therapy licensing board, as they may vary from state to state.
These requirements may include criminal background checks, proof of education, and completion of a certain number of clinical hours.
Once you’ve successfully obtained your licensure, you will officially be a licensed physical therapist.
However, keep in mind that you will need to maintain this licensure through continuing education and professional development, as required by your state’s licensing board.
Step 8: Pursue Specialization Certifications (Optional)
Once you have gained some experience as a Physical Therapist, you may choose to specialize in a certain area of physical therapy.
Specialization can provide more job opportunities, higher salary, and personal satisfaction in your work.
Some popular specializations include Orthopaedic, Geriatric, Pediatric, Neurologic, and Sports physical therapy.
Most specializations require additional certifications, which typically involve a combination of practical experience, additional coursework, and passing a certification exam.
These certifications are often provided by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) or other professional organizations.
For example, if you wish to specialize in Orthopaedic physical therapy, you might need to complete a postgraduate orthopaedic physical therapy residency, gain a certain amount of practical experience in orthopaedic physical therapy settings, and pass the Orthopaedic Certified Specialist (OCS) exam.
Remember, while specialization can enhance your career, it’s not a requirement to have a successful career as a Physical Therapist.
It’s an optional step based on your personal interests and career goals.
Step 9: Seek Employment in Various Healthcare Settings
As you complete your education and licensing, consider the different healthcare settings in which you can apply your skills as a physical therapist.
Common settings include hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, outpatient clinics, private practices, schools, sports and fitness facilities, and home health agencies.
Each setting provides unique opportunities and challenges, so it’s important to think about where you might fit best.
For example, if you’re interested in sports medicine, consider seeking employment in a sports rehabilitation facility or with a professional sports team.
If you enjoy working with children, a school or pediatric clinic might be a good fit.
You may also choose to work as a traveling physical therapist.
This would involve temporarily working in different locations around the country based on where there is a need.
This can be a great way to gain a wide range of experience and see different parts of the country.
Remember, the job search can take time.
Use networking opportunities, attend job fairs, and maintain your online professional profiles to increase your chances of finding a job that suits your interests and abilities.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find your dream job right away.
Your first job is often a stepping stone to future opportunities in the field of physical therapy.
Step 10: Maintain Licensure with Continuing Education
Physical Therapists, like many professionals in the medical field, are required to maintain their licensure through continuing education.
These programs serve to ensure that practitioners stay up-to-date with the latest techniques, practices, and research in their field.
Continuing education requirements can vary greatly by state, but generally, Physical Therapists are required to complete a certain number of continuing education hours every few years.
This may include attending workshops, seminars, courses, or conferences in your field.
The subjects of these programs can range from specific techniques for physical therapy, new research findings, ethics in healthcare, or specialized areas of physical therapy.
Some states also require that a certain number of these hours be in a hands-on or interactive format, so be sure to check with your state’s licensing board to ensure you’re meeting all necessary requirements.
Continuing education not only fulfills licensure requirements, but it can also improve your skills, increase your knowledge, and possibly lead to advancement opportunities in your career.
It is a crucial step in staying current in the field of physical therapy and providing the best care possible to your patients.
Step 11: Join Professional Organizations
Joining professional organizations can be a significant step in your career as a Physical Therapist.
These organizations often offer resources for continued education, networking opportunities, and professional development.
They can also keep you up-to-date with the latest research and trends in the field of physical therapy.
You could consider joining the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), which is one of the most prominent professional organizations for physical therapists.
APTA provides its members with a wide range of benefits, including access to their extensive online library, discounts on continuing education courses, and opportunities for advocacy in the profession.
Other organizations to consider could be the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy or the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.
By joining these groups, you can receive support throughout your career, from passing your licensing exams to becoming a certified specialist in a particular area of physical therapy.
Remember, becoming an active member of these organizations can also give you a platform to make a difference in your field.
Participating in committees, attending conferences and workshops, or contributing to their publications can help you make valuable connections and establish your reputation as a professional.
Step 12: Continue Professional Development and Advancement
As a physical therapist, your learning does not stop once you’ve obtained your license and secured a job.
To stay up-to-date with the latest treatments, techniques, and technologies, you need to continuously participate in professional development activities.
This can involve taking part in workshops, conferences, and specialized training courses, as well as reading professional journals and research papers.
Professional development also opens the door for career advancement opportunities.
You might decide to specialize in a specific area such as sports therapy, pediatric physical therapy, or geriatric physical therapy.
These specializations often require additional education and certification, but they can make you more marketable and allow you to command a higher salary.
You may also decide to seek out leadership roles, such as managing a physical therapy department or opening your own practice.
These roles require strong business acumen and leadership skills, which can be developed through relevant courses or experiences.
Remember, physical therapy is a dynamic and evolving field, and to provide the best possible care to your patients, it is important to keep learning and growing as a professional.
Physical Therapist Roles and Responsibilities
Physical Therapists are healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat individuals with health problems resulting from injury or disease.
They work towards improving mobility, relieving pain, and preventing or limiting physical disability in patients.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Patient Evaluation
- Perform a thorough assessment of the patient’s physical condition.
- Identify the patient’s ability to function and move.
- Evaluate the patient’s medical history and consult with other healthcare professionals if necessary.
Treatment Planning
- Create a personalized treatment plan considering the patient’s goals and abilities.
- Set realistic and achievable goals for each patient.
- Modify the treatment plan as needed based on the patient’s progress or changes in health status.
Therapeutic Exercises
- Design and demonstrate exercises that can improve patient mobility, strength, and endurance.
- Teach patients how to do exercises at home to promote faster recovery.
Patient Education
- Educate patients and their families about what to expect from the recovery process.
- Explain safety points during exercises to avoid injuries.
- Provide information about maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent future physical problems.
Manual Therapy
- Apply hands-on techniques to improve movement and decrease pain.
- Use equipment such as weights, resistance bands, and exercise balls to aid in therapy.
Documentation
- Maintain accurate patient records, including the initial evaluation, progress notes, and discharge summary.
- Record the patient’s response to therapy and report this information to the referring physician.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Work closely with other healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and occupational therapists for comprehensive patient care.
Continuing Education
- Stay updated with the latest research, treatments, and techniques in physical therapy.
- Participate in professional development activities such as workshops, seminars, and conferences.
Patient Advocacy
- Act as a patient advocate, ensuring they receive the necessary care and resources.
- Communicate effectively with patients, their families, and healthcare team to ensure the patient’s needs are met.
What Does a Physical Therapist Do?
Physical Therapists, also known as PTs, typically work in hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and nursing homes.
They work closely with patients who have a variety of physical conditions, including those suffering from injuries, illnesses, or chronic diseases that limit their ability to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.
Their job is to examine each individual and develop a plan using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability.
Physical Therapists also work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility before it occurs by developing fitness and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.
They provide care to people of all ages who have functional problems resulting from, for example, back and neck injuries, sprains, strains, and fractures, arthritis, burns, amputations, stroke, multiple sclerosis, conditions such as cerebral palsy and spina bifida, and injuries related to work and sports.
Physical Therapists are also responsible for educating patients, their families, and other healthcare providers on the importance of physical therapy and how it can help improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
Essential Physical Therapist Skills
- Physical Assessment: Physical therapists need to accurately assess a patient’s physical condition, mobility, and strength. This includes a keen sense of observation and understanding of human anatomy and physiology.
- Communication: Excellent communication skills are crucial. Physical therapists need to effectively explain treatment plans, listen to patient concerns, and build trust with patients and their families.
- Patience: Dealing with patients who are experiencing pain and discomfort requires a high level of patience. Progress can be slow and therapists need to maintain a calm and supportive environment.
- Manual Dexterity: Physical therapy often involves hands-on treatment, such as massage or joint manipulation. Therapists must have excellent manual dexterity and coordination.
- Problem-Solving: Therapists need to devise effective treatment plans to help patients regain their mobility and manage pain. This involves critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Knowledge of Therapeutic Exercises: Proficiency in designing and demonstrating therapeutic exercises is essential. This includes understanding the impact of various exercises on different muscle groups.
- Compassion: Physical therapists often work with individuals in pain or facing challenging physical conditions. Being empathetic and compassionate helps to provide supportive care.
- Physical Stamina: The job can be physically demanding, as therapists are often on their feet and may need to assist or lift patients. Good physical stamina is necessary.
- Knowledge of Medical Equipment: Familiarity with medical equipment like traction machines, exercise bikes, resistance bands, etc., is important for effective treatment.
- Time Management: Physical therapists typically see multiple patients in a day, each requiring individual attention and personalized treatment plans. Good time management skills are essential.
- Documentation: Therapists must maintain accurate records of patient progress, treatments, and medical histories. These records assist in monitoring progress and adjusting treatment plans.
- Teamwork: Physical therapists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, like doctors, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. Thus, the ability to work well in a team is essential.
- Continuing Education: The field of physical therapy is continuously evolving. Therapists should be open to learning and implementing new treatment techniques and staying updated on the latest research.
- Ethics: Adhering to ethical standards, including patient confidentiality and professional conduct, is crucial in this field.
- Resilience: Working with patients dealing with pain and physical limitations can be emotionally challenging. Therapists need to be resilient while staying committed to their patients’ recovery.
Physical Therapist Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Entry-Level Physical Therapist
Your journey typically begins as an Entry-Level Physical Therapist.
You will be involved in patient assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic implementation at this stage.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Continual Learning: Stay updated with the latest therapeutic modalities and techniques.
- Build Patient Rapport: Effective communication and empathy are key to gaining patient trust.
- Detail-Oriented Approach: Ensure precision in creating and following treatment plans.
The Ascent: Experienced Physical Therapist
With more experience and developed skills, you transition into the role of an Experienced Physical Therapist.
You’ll take on more complex cases, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and contribute towards patient rehabilitation strategies.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work effectively with other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive care.
- Specialized Knowledge: Consider specializing in a specific area like sports therapy, pediatric therapy, or geriatric therapy.
- Outcome-Oriented Approach: Focus on improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Physical Therapist
As a Senior Physical Therapist, you are recognized for your expertise and leadership.
You may guide clinical decisions, mentor junior therapists, and ensure the highest standard of care.
To excel as a Senior Physical Therapist:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help newer therapists grow.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Use the latest research and evidence to inform your clinical decisions.
- Leadership: Lead by example and inspire others with your work ethic and dedication to patient care.
Beyond the Horizon: Management and Specialist Roles
As your career progresses, you may choose to specialize further, become a Physical Therapy Manager, or even an advanced practice therapist.
Each of these roles involves greater responsibilities and strategic decision-making.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Clinical Leadership: Drive clinical initiatives and guide the therapeutic strategies of your department.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to manage your team effectively.
- Advocacy and Policy: Advocate for patient rights and contribute to policy making in the field of physical therapy.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Rehabilitation Services
At the highest levels of the physical therapy career ladder, you might become a Director of Rehabilitation Services.
In this position, you’ll be responsible for strategic planning, managing multiple teams, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality rehabilitation services across the organization.
Physical Therapist Salary
Entry-Level Physical Therapist
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $75,000 per year
- Entry-level physical therapists typically have 0-2 years of experience and are required to have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
Mid-Level Physical Therapist
- Median Salary: $75,000 – $90,000 per year
- Mid-level physical therapists have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex cases, requiring advanced therapeutic methods.
Senior Physical Therapist
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $105,000 per year
- Senior physical therapists possess 5+ years of experience and often have responsibilities such as training and mentoring junior therapists, as well as leading specific therapeutic programs.
Physical Therapy Supervisor/Manager
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $120,000+ per year
- These roles require significant experience, often involving administrative responsibilities, supervision of physical therapy services, and coordination with other healthcare professionals.
Director of Physical Therapy
- Median Salary: $120,000 – $160,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep understanding of physical therapy practices and often involve setting strategies and goals for a physical therapy department within a healthcare organization.
Physical Therapist Work Environment
Physical Therapists often work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and even in private practices.
They may also provide services in schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings, and homes.
Physical Therapists typically have a full-time schedule, although part-time positions are also available.
They may need to work evenings or weekends to accommodate patients’ schedules.
Physical Therapists spend much of their time on their feet and are active, as they demonstrate exercises and assist patients with their movement.
Their job can be physically demanding as they need to lift or move patients at times.
After gaining substantial experience, a Physical Therapist may choose to specialize in a specific area like pediatrics, geriatrics, orthopedics, or sports therapy.
Some may even choose to open their own practice or become consultants or educators in the field.
FAQs About Becoming a Physical Therapist
What qualifications do I need to become a physical therapist?
To become a physical therapist, you need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited physical therapy program.
This is typically a three-year program after you have completed your undergraduate studies.
In addition to the DPT degree, you must also pass a state-administered national exam to become licensed to practice.
Key skills for a physical therapist include good communication, patience, physical stamina, detail-oriented, and strong interpersonal skills.
How long does it take to become a physical therapist?
Becoming a physical therapist typically takes seven years: four years of undergraduate study, typically with a focus on health science fields, and three years in a professional DPT program.
After graduation, you must pass a licensure exam to begin practicing as a physical therapist.
Some therapists also complete residency programs after graduation to gain advanced training and specialize in a specific area of physical therapy, which can take an additional 1-3 years.
Can I become a physical therapist without a doctoral degree?
In most countries, including the United States, a doctoral degree (DPT) is the minimum educational requirement to become a licensed physical therapist.
However, you can work in physical therapy as a physical therapist assistant (PTA) with an associate degree.
PTAs work under the direction of physical therapists to provide therapy services to patients.
Is physical therapy a stressful job?
Like any healthcare profession, physical therapy can be stressful at times.
Therapists often work in busy environments and have to manage multiple patients with varying needs.
In addition, the job can be physically demanding, as it requires standing for long periods and assisting patients with their exercises.
However, many physical therapists find the job rewarding as they can make a significant difference in their patients’ lives by helping them to improve mobility and manage pain.
What are the job prospects for physical therapists?
Job prospects for physical therapists are good and are expected to grow in the coming years.
This is largely due to the aging population, which will increase the demand for physical therapy services, as older individuals are more likely to experience physical ailments that require therapy.
Additionally, as the healthcare sector continues to recognize the benefits of physical therapy for injury prevention and rehabilitation, opportunities in this field are set to expand.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Embarking on a journey to become a physical therapist is no small feat, but it’s undoubtedly rewarding.
Armed with the right skills, education, and determination, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the field of healthcare.
Remember, the journey may be rigorous, but the rewards are boundless. Your expertise could lead to transformative treatments that change people’s lives for the better.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with professionals. And most importantly, never stop caring for others.
Because the world is waiting for the healing touch you can bring.
And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in physical therapy, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This free tool is designed to offer customized advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
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